UFC on FOX 12 results recap: Robbie Lawler vs. Matt Brown

Robbie Lawler and Matt Brown lived up to the lofty expectations placed on them and produced an entertaining five-round battle that culminated in a unanimous decision victory for Robbie Lawler. Both fighters had their moments during the contest but it was ultimately Lawler who was the more technical fighter and secured at least three rounds on all three judges scorecards.

Official result: Robbie Lawler def. Matt Brown via unanimous decision (49-46, 48-47, 49-46)

What was the high point of the fight?

There were several high points during the fight. While the first round was an entertaining affair, it was the second frame that saw the biggest surprise of the fight when Brown managed to rock Lawler with strikes and level the scorecards 19-19. It was that moment that established the main event as a competitive battle and potentially anyone's fight to win.

The fifth round of action was arguably the most entertaining of the fight, as Brown, who was clearly down on the scorecards, proceeded to push himself against the former title challenger. We would learn following the event that Brown had injured his right hand during the midway point of the fight, so his display of heart and resiliency in the fifth round was worthy of fans' respect and admiration.

Where do these two go from here?

Considering this was a No. 1 contender fight, it is safe to assume that Robbie Lawler is next in line for a shot at welterweight champion Johny Hendricks. Since Lawler has fought three times in the span of four months, he will likely be looking for some time off before the title fight, which should take place in early 2015.

As for Matt Brown, he proved that he is worthy of contesting matches against some of the very best competitors in the division. While he had managed a remarkable winning streak, the main criticism leveled against him was the fact that he had never faced opponents in the Top 10 of the division.  Going five rounds with the No. 1 contender at 170lb. proves that he deserves his spot in the rankings.

A match-up against Carlos Condit would be a fantastic fight for Brown next.

Watch now, later or never?

Watch now. Although many fans and pundits alike were anticipating a quick, violent finish during this encounter, the five-round battle that ensued instead was an entertaining affair that is worthy of any MMA fan's time and effort.